ICC Men’s World Cup 2023

After four years, ICC World cup is back in India. Ten teams have been qualified for the group stage in which, 4 teams will make it to semi finals. Followed by top two teams will fight for the top spot. This tournament is unpredictable as all the teams have been in great form since their last matches. We could see multiple disappointments and surprise in this upcoming tournament.

Here is the list of my top 5 favorites who will be competing in the main tournament starting from October 5.

India is the most favorites to be the champions as they are the hosts for ICC World cup 2023. India has a very good record winnings in their home series. The team led by Virat Kohli is confident with their squad and will be looking forward to easily slide into the semi finals. India have been a world champions in 1983 and 2011.

You can check out my blog on India vs Pakistan

Pakistan has emerged as a top ranked team in One day international matches in last few months. Not only their batting line up is strong, but also he likes of Shaheen Afridi and Haris rauf has cemented the team to become the champions. Pakistan team have finally arrived Hyderabad,India. They will be playing in India after 7 years.

Securing place at no. 3 Australia will face their first match against India on October 8, Sunday. Like India, Australia to have quality players in all sections of their team, their middle order has proved to be the best when chasing the target. During warm up match against Netherlands,A half-century for Steve Smith and a hat-trick to Mitchell Starc were the bright spots for the five-time champions in a game that was reduced to 23-overs-a-side due to a delayed start. It will be a good contest to watch Australia play their first game against India.

World cup 2019 champs England will be confident to begin their World cup journey and eyeing to continue the winning streak. The defending champions England cricket team arrived in India on Thursday ahead of the first warmup match against India on Saturday. England were the only side to beat India in the league stage of the 2019 ODI World Cup, after which India jettisoned their two-wrist spinner strategy.

New Zealand’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. They chased the massive target of 346 in 43.5 overs with 5 wicket left. Even though Shaheen Shah Afridi didn’t bowl, they made light work of a daunting 345-run chase. New zealand faced an early setback when opening batsman Conway was dismissed for a golden duck. Ravindra’s innings gave momentum to their batting line up but he felt short of a well-deserved century. Williamson capitalized on the opportunity for valuable batting practice and retired after reaching his half-century.

The only concerned in this tournament is the rain. Most of the warm up matches were abandoned. This will be frustrating to see the teams getting knocked out due to it. But all we can do is stay positive and expect that this tournament will be best one ever.

Giving time to God !

Daily writing prompt

What’s your #1 priority tomorrow?

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As tomorrow is Sunday, I have decided to start my day by reading a bible quote. I have been through many struggles few years back. Struggling to get a job, financial issues, losing job opportunities and many more. But those struggles didn’t last long. Because I always believed in god, with consistent efforts and not giving up I came out from the challenged one by one, all you need is hard work and faith in god. Our prayers are always heard.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.
Isaiah 43.2

In the verse the Lord says: “Do not fear, I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine” God says not to fear! This should give you great comfort. Not only God is promising that all things are under perfect control, He has called you redeemed justified and victorious. “Whatever rough waters you find yourself wading in today, you will not be swept away.” The flames of temptation and tribulation cannot consume you. No hurdle, no challenge, no obstacle, is too powerful for you because you are already His. So fear not, Child of God. He is with you. Trust what he has promised you.

When I was struggling to get a job in my home country, I took a risk of moving to middle east on a visit visa to look for an opportunity. As the visa had a duration of 90 days. All I had to do try my best to apply on all Job search platforms. I used to keep applying 10-15 applications and consistently updating my CV.

During this period apart from genuine jobs, I came across lots of scams where they hire you till the duration of your visit visa and terminating you in the end. But you get the red flags by researching about these fraud job listings. I didn’t got a single response in 2 months of continuous job search. But I didn’t lose hope. I was consistent on searching for a job.

Finally after 2 months, I got an opportunity for an interview and I got selected in reputed company in Dubai. I learnt that consistent efforts and hard work always pays off. Lets not forget that I was praying everyday.

Today it’s been a year I am working, it’s been difficult to maintain the consistency in giving time to god. But, I always thank him for removing me from the struggles. We should remember him not only during bad times but also during good. Therefore I have decided to start everyday bible reading.

Hope you liked this blog, also feel free to check my other blog on ‘Never give up!’

Albert Travels : Travel and Tourism.

selective focus photography of yellow school bus die cast

Travel around the world with Albert Travels !
Albert Travels.

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We are very excited to introduce Albert Travels as the one stop provider for all your travel needs and requirements. We label ourselves as leading, innovative, and highly efficient and look forward to demonstrate these qualities at the earliest possible chance. Since we started offering services in 2021. Our primary aim is to provide quality travel services to business and leisure travellers. The agency continued to grow and branch out its interests to rise as one of the exponents in the travel industry.

Albert Travels is the agency that provides a worry free travel experience from bookings to tour packages. We make sure that our beloved customers have a fun, safe and memorable trips around the world. We are expert in Permanent Residency visas, recruitment and student visas worldwide. Provides all types related to Visas, flight and hotel bookings, UAE document attestation, PRO work.

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Holding a grudge on someone?

Daily writing prompt

Are you holding a grudge? About?

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Holding a grudge will eventually consume you by weakening your body mentally. Have you ever tried shouting and feeling as if your heart is pumping fast and you are feeling trouble breathing?I have experienced it. As per cambridge dictionary, Grudge is a strong feeling of anger and dislike for a person who you feel has treated you badly, especially one that lasts for a long time.

Grudges are usually directed toward people, but a person can hold a grudge against a group or an entity like a company or organization. The word grudge is often followed by the word against and whom or what the grudge is directed toward. For example,

Boss doubting you on your capabilities while you are giving your best at job.
A boy has a grudge on his ex for cheating on him with another person.
A student has a grudge on his teacher for punishing him in front of whole class.
Family dispute.

Why is it so easy to hold a grudge?

Being hurt by someone, particularly someone you love and trust, can cause anger, sadness and confusion. If you dwell on hurtful events or situations, grudges filled with resentment and hostility can take root. If you allow negative feelings to crowd out positive feelings, you might find yourself swallowed up by bitterness or a sense of injustice.

Some people are naturally more forgiving than others. But even if you tend to hold a grudge, almost anyone can learn to be more forgiving.

What are the effects of holding a grudge?

If you struggle with finding forgiveness, you might:

Bring anger and bitterness into new relationships and experiences.
Become so wrapped up in the wrong that you can’t enjoy the present.
Become depressed, irritable or anxious.
Feel at odds with your spiritual beliefs.
Lose valuable and enriching connections with others.

My answer to today’s prompt is I don’t have grudge on anyone. Whenever someone treats me bad, I do get hurt, but that happens very rarely. I am a guy to whom everyone likes to be friends with me. If I am good to others then no one will try to hurt your. I believe that our life is designed to put us through challenges and to test us on how we respond and ultimately deciding our fate.

For me its just a moment where someone will eventually target you out of nowhere just to check your reaction, but the best reply is to take it jokingly and being silent. If you react, then they’ll get to know your weak point.

I do read books , motivational videos, gym to relieve my stress and I think this makes me more calm and relaxed throughout the day. And last but not least, ‘Time is the best healer’
Aloysius.F

(Some of the contents have been extracted from Mayoclinic.org)

Asia Cup 2023 : India vs Pakistan

How are you feeling right now?

The day has finally come and I am excited to watch to most favorites in the International cricket teams clashing each other at Asia Cup 2023 tournament. So it’s not just about me, but billion fans are happy and excited right now.

India vs Pakistan matches are considered to be one of the best matches in the history of cricket. The matches between India and its neighbour are known for its intensity. It is considered as one of the biggest matches in the world, and is among the most-viewed sport games. The stadiums are packed and it is considered to best business for the sponsors and other partners.

Both sides give their best performance in the matches as it all about the country to represent and the people all over the world. Sometimes things goes out of controls as supporters storm Twitter to release their frustration if their side lose the match. But, the same time, India–Pakistan matches have also offered opportunities as a means to improve relations between the two countries by allowing heads of state to exchange visits and cricket followers from either country to travel to the other to watch the matches.

Not only there are supporters in two nations but there are millions of expats worldwide who travels in middle east countries where India vs Pakistan matches are organized. It was recorded that Tickets for matches in which the two teams play each other at international competitions are in high demand, with over 800,000 applications for tickets made for the 2019 World Cup meeting between the two sides; the television transmission of the match was watched by 273 million viewers.

Past moment before beginning of the match.

Stats between two Teams.

The two sides have played a total of 203 times. Pakistan has won 88 matches compared to India’s 72 victories. In Test matches and ODIs, Pakistan has won more matches than India, although India has won eight of the twelve T20 International between the two sides.

The two nations are currently dominating the ICC ODI rankings as :

No. 1 Batsman in T20I – Suryakumar Yadav.
No.1 Batsman in ODI – Babar Azam.
No. 1 Bowler in Test – Ravichandran Ashwin.
No. 1 All-rounder – Ravindra Jadeja.
No. Test team – India.
No.1 ODI team – Pakistan.
No. 1 T20 team – India.

Lets wait and enjoy today’s match. No matter whoever wins, but it is going to be the best game in history of cricket.

Checking airline tickets !

Daily writing prompt

What was the last thing you searched for online? Why were you looking for it?

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As an expat living abroad, we all know how excited we are for our vacation to spend time with our loved ones in our country. Even if you are too busy with your work life in a fast paced city (Like Dubai), there comes a moment when the sadness gets you and make you feel low. But, as you sense a vacation approaching soon, you ll never skip a day without checking the airline tickets. Same goes to me (or maybe I am unique).

I have been too much addicted this days. As soon as I open chrome, I get a pop up about ticket prices for the current day. First thing then I check whether the fares are cheaper or not, if the fares are cheaper then more happiness + excitement. Maybe I ll get that satisfaction once I book the tickets. And once I book the tickets, then my excitement will reaching next level daily as day approaches.

Are you the similar kind of person as I am? Do let me know in comments. Meanwhile you can check my blog on Dubai !

Never give up !

Daily writing prompt

What brings a tear of joy to your eye?

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I would like to share with you a very good example about the struggles I faced during my career.

After completing my engineering diploma of 4 years, I had got an opportunity to work for reputed company in Mumbai. The diploma course consist of a sandwich pattern where each year was divided into semesters. Eight semesters in total in which the two semesters (5 and 8) were internships. During both internship period it was easy for me as that company was 11 min distance from where I was staying. Also if you have completed the internship in same organization, there is a very high chances of getting selected.

Once I completed the diploma with an aggregate of 82% I had a dream of working in the same organization. But sadly I was not shortlisted due to my diploma which was designated as Fabrication technology and erection engineering. They told me that they only recruit candidates with Mechanical engineering diploma. I tried explaining them that the course was similar throughout all the semesters and only the 7th semester is different in which they learn deeply into refrigeration and me into welding. That was a turning point in my life. Imagine not getting selected in the organisation which is just 10 mins away from your home. Imagine you are selecting a college just because there is an campus placement and you end up losing an opportunity. I felt disappointed and one point of time i felt regret for selecting the department which is way different than the others.

Few months later I started working as a fitter for 4 months and then as a sales engineer for a year. I was not happy because I felt like I was going down instead of growing in my career. After struggling to search for a job. I got an opportunity to work in Kuwait as a CNC machine operator. That’s where I decided to start a career in safety. I attended classes during week off and finally after 1 years I completed Nebosh International certificate in Occupational Health and safety. That’s where I started getting new opportunities. To gain a basic experience, I started working as a fire watcher in Qatar for a shutdown project. And currently I am finally working as a safety officer in reputed company in Dubai.

Sometime I do remember the past where I felt lost and without hope after losing opportunities in life. But, those failures gave me strength to keep trying and developing myself to prepare for future. I spent hours applying on job sites and adding certifications to my profile which led to highlighting my CVs to the recruiters. I learnt that consistent efforts and hard work often leads to success. People often talk about being lucky, but if you put efforts then your chances of being lucky increases naturally. Indeed at present whenever I remember the past, it does brings tears into my eyes and its none other than tears of joy.

Meanwhile you can also check my blog on Career .

Birthday Surprise !

Tell us about the last thing you got excited about.

On my 30th birthday, I was about to get a surprise from my girlfriend. I am in long distance relationship, and to stay away from each other is the biggest challenge a couple could face. It tests the patience between two persons but, if love is pure, then nothing is impossible. The day will come when we ll be finally be together. So here’s what happened…

I have my colleague who is always with me while working, we have a bond like brothers and when I tell about how mu day went I also share about him to my girlfriend most of the times. So she contacted him on social media and told him not to inform me about the birthday surprise. But as we know many of them are so poor in hiding surprises that they let it out anyhow. So one day he told me that I am getting surprise from my gf. He told me not to inform her as she will get disappointed. He gave a hint that she is coming to meet me in Dubai all the way from India.

I was on the moon from that very fine day. I was so happy and excited. I had to plan my schedule for a week on how to manage my work and also spend time her. I also ended up giving my overtime to my other colleague. So that I can be available to take her to amazing places like ‘The Burj Khalifa’, The Dubai mall, Blue waters marina and more. Some times I couldn’t get a sleep because of overthinking of that day where she ll give me a surprise.

But, days before I seriously asked my colleague once again about her arrival time and he chuckled at me saying that she is not coming to Dubai. I was heart broken and sad. The expectations and excitement faded away. He always lie to me about small things but this genuinely hurted me. From his point of view it was just a normal lie and he told me that he wanted to see my excitement and love for her.

Well, maybe I believe its not his mistake as he is into short distance relationship and unaware about what I unless he stepped into my shoes. Going forward on my birthday. It was a G Shock watch that I got as a gift from my girl and I was happy about it. (Not as excited and happy as I was before.) For me her presence is all that matters to me than other materialistic things. ♥️

Building a Sustainable City.

How would you design the city of the future?

Have you ever noticed that the countries who were once dependant on natural resources like crude oil, natural gas are taking a giant step towards sustainable cities and environment? Lets take a one good example of NEOM city in Saudi Arabia

The Line is a linear smart city under construction in Saudi Arabia in Neom, Tabuk Province, which is designed to have no cars, streets or carbon emissions.The 170-kilometre-long city is part of Saudi Vision 2030 project. The city’s plans anticipate a population of 9 million; 25% of Saudi Arabia’s current population of 35.5 million.

The plan is for the city to be powered entirely by renewable energy. It will consist of three layers, one on the surface for pedestrians, one underground for infrastructure, and another underground for transportation.Artificial intelligence will monitor the city and use predictive and data models to find ways to improve daily life for its citizens, with residents being paid for submitting data to The Line.

Also i have read that this will be a place where everything you want to visit will be at the distance of 5-10 mins. Imagine current society of building taking maximum land area and on the other hand, The Line is so compact that it can fit same no. of residents in straight horizon infrastructure.

I would design the city by keeping in mind about…

1. The sustainability.

2. Technology.

3. Entertainment venues at many locations so that the people can move out of their houses.

4. Zero Co2 emissions affecting the environment.

5. Boosting GDP of my country.

6. Tourist attraction hub.

7. Ease of Living.

Best Friends are Diamonds!

We all have a huge circle of friends in our life. Years a ago, there was a time where we often used to get together at a fixed time and at a fixed place to have fun together. Of course, there was no technology to rely on, so mostly it was our daily routine of playing outdoor traditional games and it was way more fun, and not even us, but also our parents used to join us by having a good time. But Alas! those time were precious and today’s generation will no longer experience it because of the digital world that we are living in.

But we do have someone to whom we called friends. Now a days it is easy to make friends on social media. These decade the social media played a mighty role of a person having 2000-3000 friends whom he don’t even know 70% of the people, the other 20 % is are the ones that we call them social media buddies, where there is a current trend going on by reacting to memes and other posts, and the rest 10% are those people whom we genuinely know them.

But are those friends real? I feel that in this current generation to overcome our loneliness and sadness we do spend more time on media, this for sure give us that temporary happiness and often for some are addicted consider it as a detox. And now this current lockdown has taken the people to a whole new level of meeting each other digitally.

Why we need a best friend? For me I too have many friends but I have only have one whom I consider it as a special one, ‘The Best Friend’. We see that people will always be replaced at the particular time, school friends are replacing college friends, college friends with the work colleagues and so on, but those rare ones whom we are still in touch with each other and meet are considered as best ones, another reason so a best friend will always be by your side during the ups and downs in your life, no matter you ll have a girl friend/boy friend but if things doesn’t work between you then you take the help of the bestie, because they are the ones who will listen to you guide you and advise you to take further actions to make your relationship grow stronger. They will by your side at the start of your relationship and will also be at the end to support you during tough times, we consider them as the family.

He/she will always be loyal with you. Sometimes such situation may come due to that she/he have to take such decisions which are not in your favour but he/she must have to tell you by seeing a good opportunity without hurting you. If you are positive you will for sure take it in a good way. Sometimes you need to kill your Ego and Attitude to maintain a relationship and friendship. They are protective of you.Your friend won’t be overprotective because they see you as a possession. Instead, they’ll be protective in a good way. They love you, so they want you to be safe, and they want the best for you.

I do believe that a best friend plays an important role in everyone’s life and most of the happy moments are created with best friends.

Meanwhile you can check my travel blog